That’s Not My Neighbor: A Game of Doppelgangers and Document Disasters

When your neighbor might be an imposter, and your PC might be on fire

Launch Day Larry

Welcome to the world of “That’s Not My Neighbor,” where the stakes are high, the neighbors are suspicious, and your PC might just melt from the particle effects. This indie gem, inspired by the likes of “Papers, Please,” offers a unique twist on the decision-making genre, but does it live up to its potential? Let’s dive in and find out.

Gameplay: A Rollercoaster of Replayability and Frustration

“That’s Not My Neighbor” shines with its entertaining gameplay and significant replayability. The unique premise of identifying doppelgangers and making critical decisions keeps players engaged, much like a detective with a penchant for paperwork. The game has made strides since its itch.io days, with quality of life improvements that make it more accessible to newcomers. However, the gameplay isn’t without its quirks.

The interface, for instance, seems to have taken a page from the “How to Annoy Gamers” handbook. The main menu button is a bit too eager to be clicked, leading to unsaved progress and a few choice words from players. Meanwhile, the new office setup and interaction mechanics have left some longing for the good old days of manual door control. It’s like the game decided to automate everything, including your frustration levels.

The tutorial could use a bit more hand-holding, especially when it comes to explaining game mechanics like denying entry or calling an emergency. It’s as if the tutorial assumes you’re already a seasoned detective, leaving new players scratching their heads. Plus, the inability to play every game mode from the start is a bit of a buzzkill for those eager to explore all the game has to offer.

Graphics: Cute, Amazing, and a Little Too Hot to Handle

Visually, “That’s Not My Neighbor” is a mixed bag. The graphics have certainly improved from the itch.io version, with a cute and amazing visual style that adds charm to the game. However, the lack of customizable graphics settings is a glaring oversight. Players have reported high PC temperatures and resource consumption, which is a bit concerning for a game that isn’t exactly “Elden Ring” in terms of graphical demands.

The oversized items and interface design can be a bit intrusive, making it difficult to manage documents and items. It’s like trying to organize a desk full of giant sticky notes that refuse to stay put. While the visuals are fun and engaging, there’s a definite need for more graphics and performance settings to prevent your PC from turning into a space heater.

Story: Intriguing Premise, But Where’s the Depth?

The narrative of “That’s Not My Neighbor” is where things get interesting. The game draws players into a world of decision-making and fact-checking, with multiple endings and lore elements that add depth to the experience. The detective elements and tension of uncovering lies are a treat for fans of true-crime and strategy games. However, the story is criticized for its brevity and lack of interaction.

The campaign is shorter than a coffee break, leaving players wanting more. The limited story is primarily conveyed through a few newspaper stories, and the lack of dynamic interactions with characters makes the world feel static. Players have expressed a desire for more meaningful interactions and narrative consequences, akin to the emotional rollercoaster of “Papers, Please.”

The game does offer some intriguing lore, with characters like Chester adding a layer of mystery. However, the lack of detailed feedback at the end of the day leaves players confused about their actions, affecting their understanding of the story’s progression. More interaction with neighbors and reintroducing features from earlier versions could enhance the narrative experience.

Final Verdict

“That’s Not My Neighbor” is a game with a unique and intriguing premise, offering a fresh take on the decision-making genre. While the gameplay is entertaining and replayable, it is hampered by interface issues and a lack of customizable settings. The graphics are charming but need more options to prevent performance hiccups. The story, though engaging, requires more depth and interaction to fully realize its potential.

Overall, “That’s Not My Neighbor” is a fun and challenging experience, but it needs some polish to reach the heights of its inspirations. With a few updates and improvements, it could become a standout title in the indie gaming scene.

Score: 6.0/10